The Microsoft New Zealand Innovation Centre was launched in October last year to help accelerate the progress of technology projects for public sector agencies and foster innovation in the sector. The Centre provides successful applicants with Microsoft services and commercial partner expertise at no cost to the agency.

The mobile and wireless related projects (there are others, visit the link!) are:

New Zealand Fire Service - Mobilisation of Operational Systems
This prototype will look at the feasibility of providing real-time access to essential information on the way to an incident, such as chemical data and building risk profiles, via a rugged Tablet PC which can be carried inside the truck. It will also trial satellite tracking and best route analysis, and investigate the usefulness of mobile devices for information gathering, such as building risks profiles and hydrant testing results.

The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa - Mobile Exhibition Guide
This project will explore the use of a hand-held computer device to enhance a museum visitor's experience. Combining wireless networking and hand-held computing technology, the prototype will enable Te Papa to explore a number of scenarios for increasing the range of interpretive media available within the exhibition context. It provides Te Papa with an opportunity to contribute to the significant research and development focus on this exciting field within the international museum sector.